House repair

pete0020

My father is in his 80's, lives alone and is housebound with disabling arthritis and other problems.

My concern is that the outer fabric of his house is in need of urgent repair. The rendering is cracking all over, with a deeper crack into the blockwork on the front elevation. the guttering and facsias are in very poor condition. Some of the windows have misted/blown and In places some render/mortar has fallen and the guttering/facsias are i believe at risk of falling. Could you please tell me if there is any emergency repair grants or loans available to apply for or housing renewal assistance. His area is Thurrock Essex.

My fathers income just about covers his bills and care costs and does not have enough money to cover the cost of these repairs, which were estimated at about £35 thousand pounds.

I do hope you are able to help or advise how to secure the funds to repair my fathers house.

I would feel better also, knowing he is safe, secure, dry and warm in his home.

retiredbanker1

Would selling the property in its present state not be a better option and your father to go into rented accommodation, where he would not have to worry about upkeep?

I don't think there are any grants available (certainly where I live) and it looks like a loan is unaffordable. 

elsien

Equity release? 

Keep_pedalling

I know lots of older people are highly resistant to moving from their long term home but it seems sheltered housing or assisted living would be the better option than living in a run down money pit. 

itsthelittlethings

Sell the property and move into sheltered living, like semi-care, would be my advice.